Robotran and piano action projects

The piano relies on complex transmission mechanisms – called “action” – since their first appearance in the early 18th century (Cristofori’s invention of the forte piano). Thanks to Robotran, it has been possible to understand how these highly dynamic actions work, in order to

1. Explain the operation of the double escapement action (Sébastien Érard, 1821) which equips modern grand pianos;
2. Explain the dynamic behavior and limitation of Viennese actions (Stein and Walter, 18th century);
3. Create a haptic feedback to enhance the touch of digital piano keyboards, through a virtual action simulated in real time by Robotran.

See below the different projects related to piano action.

Grand piano action multibody model

The piano action of grand piano has been studied with a multibody model.

Grand piano action multibody model

Upright piano action multibody model

After the grand piano, the similar multibody study was carried out in the upright piano.

Upright piano action multibody model

Analysis of ancient piano action

Similar aproach can be used to analyse the piano action of ancient instrument.

Analysis of ancient piano action

Fandrich piano action multibody model

Develoment and analysis of the multibody model of a Fandrich piano action.

Fandrich piano action multibody model

Haptic piano key

After studying multibody models of piano action, the next step is to develop a haptic piano key.

Haptic piano key